WASHINGTON — Today by a 68 to 32 vote, the full U.S. Senate passed their comprehensive Immigration and Border Security bill, S. 744. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) President Scott George, a cattle and dairy producer from Cody, Wyo., issued the following statement:

“Border security and immigration have been one of our top priorities as set by our members in 2013. I am pleased to see that the Senate has continued the conversation on this important issue that affects all Americans, but especially rural Americans and our members who live and ranch along our borders. This action by the Senate is a step in the right direction and we look forward to engaging with members of the House in ensuring the priorities of cattlemen and women are met in final legislation.

“A strong year-round workforce is paramount to the success of the cattle industry. Cattlemen and depend on a legal and stable workforce year round. We recognize that the first step in ensuring the success of our workforce is securing and maintaining our borders. The conversations taking place on the Hill right now are keeping these issues front and center and we truly appreciate those efforts.”